Have to disagree with you, Rubik. Not all the employees think they are being shafted - I fly with many who are happy to accept their treatment by the company (and only become exercised when their own circumstances are altered).
Your assertion that all pilots are aware of the problem but are totally powerless to do manything about it - THAT attitude is the real problem. There have been many opportunities for pilots to support various initiatives. However, when about 20 out of a possible 500 turn up to a BALPA meeting one might draw the conclusion that either 480 pilots are all flying, happy with their lot or just can't be bothered.
Sorry if I've offended you by being less than complimentary about our mutual colleagues. Individually, there are some very nice guys in the company - but that's the problem. We all act as individuals and have failed to grasp the opportunity to act cohesively. Acting in your own interests is fine right up until your own interests are jeopardised and you have no collective power to act.
So to all our brethren who are currently happy because they are at the right base/tax-dodging/getting a command/getting a job, enjoy your moment of contentment. Your apathy has failed to provide you with the means to respond to Ryanair's latest cost-cutting wheeze.